Homeowners left in limbo by the failed Bella Vista Homes development will tonight meet with an independent investigator looking into possible Tauranga City Council failure.

QC Paul Heath was appointed by council to investigate their role in the handling of the failing development which saw 21 homes evacuated and many deemed dangerous despite having passed council inspections.

Some homes have trouble with their foundations as well as structural defects causing homeowners to wonder how they were signed off in the first instance.

The meeting will be the first time homeowners have been able to make contact with Heath since he was appointed.

Affected home owner Degan Prodger says the meeting feels like "just another council meeting" and homeowners are feeling sidelined.

"At first we thought this would be our chance to meet with the investigator alone but now we hear all the councillors are going to be there.

"It doesn't feel independent but I hope that feeling will change after the meeting."

Heath's report is due before June 6 when councillors will make a decision as to how to remedy the situation.

Options include buying out the affected properties or undertaking remedial works.

Heath says the public meeting is for owners from the Bella Vista Home Development, as well as other parties directly associated with the development. This includes subcontractors and builders.

"I want them to provide their feedback in an open and transparent manner," he says.

"I will take their views into account when preparing my report."

- Stuff/Matt Shand.